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Prokopiy ProkopiyA relative of the Emperor Julian the Apostate, the usurping emperor in 365-366.
Country:
 Turkey |
Content:
- Procopius: The Usurper Emperor
- Rise to Power
- Support and Opposition
- Expansion and Decline
- Defeat and Execution
Procopius: The Usurper Emperor
Early Life and CareerProcopius was born in 325 AD in Cilicia, a relative of the Roman emperor Julian the Apostate. He served as a general in Julian's Persian campaign, leading a large contingent independently.
Rise to Power
Following Julian's death and the election of Jovian as emperor, Procopius seized the opportunity to claim the throne. In September 365 AD, he exploited discontent in Constantinople to launch an uprising and declare himself Augustus.
Support and Opposition
While legions previously under his command defected to Procopius, aristocratic support was lacking. However, pagan leaders and the Thracian army sided with him. Attempts to incite a rebellion in Illyria failed, so Procopius shifted his focus to seizing Asian provinces.
Expansion and Decline
Cities like Chalcedon, Nicaea, and Nicomedia fell under his control, and Legions sent against him switched allegiance. By winter 365 AD, Procopius commanded Bithynia and the Hellespont. Despite these successes, financial strains weakened his army, forcing Procopius to confiscate property and losing support among the elite and provincial aristocracy.
Defeat and Execution
As Procopius's forces weakened, Emperor Valens's position strengthened. Procopius's troops began deserting to him. The usurper attempted to flee but was betrayed and captured. On May 27, 366 AD, Procopius was executed in Thrace.
